Keep Kids Safe From Lead: Puerto Rico Families and Communities Urged to Take Action During National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

As National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) is observed October 25–31, Zimmetry Environmental is encouraging families, property owners, contractors, schools, businesses, and community organizations throughout Puerto Rico to take practical steps to prevent lead exposure and protect children’s health.

The 2026 NLPPW theme, “Keep Kids Safe From Lead,” emphasizes three actions: Get the Facts, Get Your Child Tested, and Get Your Home Tested. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provide resources to help communities reduce lead exposure.

Lead exposure is particularly concerning for children under six, whose developing bodies and nervous systems are especially vulnerable. Even low levels of lead in a child’s blood can affect learning, attention, behavior, and academic achievement. Potential sources include deteriorating lead-based paint and dust, contaminated soil and water, and certain imported products.

Puerto Rico has strengthened childhood lead surveillance and prevention efforts. According to the CDC, Puerto Rico established a comprehensive childhood lead poisoning prevention and surveillance program in 2021.

“National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is an opportunity to turn awareness into action here in Puerto Rico,” said Harry Peña, President of Zimmetry Environmental. “Families and communities can help reduce exposure by learning where lead hazards may exist, having children tested when appropriate, and evaluating homes and other occupied spaces for potential hazards. Prevention starts with identifying risks and taking the right steps to control them.”

To support this effort, Zimmetry Environmental offers environmental and industrial hygiene testing, consulting, and training services across Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, helping clients identify environmental and workplace health hazards while supporting regulatory compliance.

For more information, visit www.zimmetry.com, call (787) 995.0005, or email info@zimmetry.com.

About Zimmetry Environmental
Since 2002, Zimmetry Environmental has been providing environmental consulting services to building owners and managers, architects, engineers, EHS professionals, and Fortune 500 companies. The company is based in Puerto Rico and provides services across the Caribbean and Central America. The professionals at Zimmetry offer environmental compliance, indoor air quality, asbestos, lead-based paint, Phase I ESAs, and general environmental consulting services.

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Paul Cochrane

President

Cochrane & Associates, LLC

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